The Iditarod is happy to announce that the Blood Bank of Alaska will be continuing their support of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race®. The Blood Bank of Alaska is celebrating over 60 years of helping Alaskans across the state, connecting Alaskan blood types to Alaskan recipients in need.

From the original 682 units collected in the first year of its inception, the Blood Bank of Alaska now collects over 24,000 units each year.  In support of the Blood Banks mission, The Iditarod is happy to host the mobile donation unit at the 2024 Iditarod Ceremonial Start in downtown Anchorage, taking place on Saturday, March 2, 2024.  All donors will receive a commemorative Blood Bank of Alaska + Iditarod shirt to show their pride of saving lives of Alaskans. Those interested in donating blood at the mobile unit can reserve a donation time between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. by visiting the link below.  If you are interested in blood donation but are unable to donate during the Ceremonial Start, you may still receive this commemorative shirt by donating during the race, March 1 – March 8, 2024.  Please visit the BBA Registration Site to make an appointment during the Ceremonial Start or please call 907-222-5630 to make an appointment at any one of the BBA’s donation centers between March 1-8 2024.

“Blood Bank of Alaska is honored to be a part of this uniquely Alaskan event. The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race® takes place in the heart of many communities supported by our volunteer blood donors at Blood Bank of Alaska.  It is a reminder of the logistical challenges villages across the state face in receiving blood and blood products and the importance of donating to help our fellow Alaskans. In Alaska we rely on each other to thrive and this continued partnership with our friends at Iditarod is a perfect example of this,” said Robert Scanlon, Chief Executive Officer of Blood Bank of Alaska.

   “ As we approach the 100 year anniversary of the serum run in which a heroic team of sled dogs and mushers delivered the vital serum that saved the lives of the children of Nome, health consciousness is very much on our mind and a part of our DNA, and thus it’s especially heartwarming to be able to announce this continued partnership.  The Blood Bank of Alaska serves not only a vital community function but also saves the lives of numerous Alaskans each and every year,” said Iditarod CEO, Rob Urbach.

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About Blood Bank of Alaska
For over 60 years, Blood Bank of Alaska has been at the forefront of Alaska health care, ensuring that our medical facilities all over the state have a safe and adequate blood supply. Blood Bank of Alaska sees approximately 2,000 volunteer blood donors each month across Alaska in order to supply blood in case of accidents, trauma, heart surgery and treatment of diseases such as cancer.  Learn more at: www.bloodbankofalaska.org